On Sunday afternoon I attended my very first clothing swap, the Frugal Fashionista Clothing Swap. I'm definitely hooked. It was busy and there were lots of women there swapping, which made for great finds. I live in the Washington, DC area and the swap was held in Alexandria, Virginia. The Frugal Fashionista Clothing Swap is organized by a great lady and friend, Kim Pratt (and several other fantastic ladies).
The swap not only provides an opportunity to purge your own closet but to get some new items FREE! It's no cost thrifting at its best. Clothing at the swap was organized by size and there were also areas for shoes, accessories, and coats. The organizers have recruited vendors for the event to do free make overs, sell jewelry and other beauty items and give free seated massages.
Remaining clothing is donated. Monetary donations collected are given to RAINN (Rape Abuse Incest National Network) and some other charities benefiting women affected by violence and sexual assault. Fashion that benefits women in need. It's a great partnership.
My sister attended with me. She scored a couple of pairs of pants, including some great black, wide legged Zara trousers. I got two sweaters, a white linen jacket, and a wool plaid skirt. I also picked up a vintage AC/DC t-shirt and a pair of shorts for my Honey.
The next clothing swap will be held on Sunday, April 3, 2011 in Alexandria, Virginia. If you live in the DC area and would like to attend, go to the Meetup group at: http://www.frugalfashionistaclothingswap.org/. There is also a facebook group where you can get info and updates. You'll need to register to attend. The swaps fill up fast and spaces are limited to avoid over crowding. If you don't live in the DC area, check local message boards and groups for swaps near you.